“I can remain professional,” I assured her, lifting a brow as if to ask her if she could. Her frown vanished, a determined look sparking in her eyes as she lifted her chin.
“Right then,” Nellie nodded, then drew in a breath and opening the folder in front of her. She pulled out a stapled printout of her cover letter, resume, and references, holding it out to me. “Although I don’t have any official experience in office administration, I have extensive experience with making schedules and all but running the café I used to work at. I also graduated top of the Recreation Therapy program I took in college.”
Both my brows lifted this time, impressed. I looked down at her resume, eyes scanning as I quickly read her cover letter and flipped it over to her work history. She’d spent over eight years at her last job, so she was a loyal employee. That was a huge bonus.
“The office administration part of this job is the main focus, but it’s fairly easy to get a grasp on. We use a user-friendly booking system for reservations, and the computers do most of the work there. Other than answering and returning calls and emails and dealing with guests when they come into the main office, you’d be responsible for staying on top of laundry, washing the linens and towels, and folding them, putting them away for the housekeepers. You’ll also be asked to do light cleaning around the main building. The bathrooms, staff room, dining room, etc. You’ll also be expected to help decorate for the holidays and put away decorations after.”
“Seems easy enough,” Nellie nodded.
I slid the pamphlets over to her. “Whimsical Woods Resorts is one of the best places to work locally. This resort has been in my family for generations, and we take care of our employees. When you work for us, you are part of our extended family.”
An undecipherable look passed in her eyes as Nellie looked down at the pamphlet, but it was gone before I could figure out what it meant.
“How much do you pay?”
“Nineteen twenty-three per hour to start, with a raise after the probation ends,” I answered. I knew it was above average.
“And, um, how long is your probation period?” Nellie asked.
“Three months. Partway through that time, we’ll have a meeting and discuss how things are going.”
Nellie nodded. “And what’s the policy about time off? If I need to go to a doctor’s appointment or something?”
Something about her question had my intuition prickling, but I kept my expression neutral. “If you need a day off for a doctor’s appointment—or something—give me enough notice to make sure we have the front office covered. You get six unpaid sick days, and we accommodate legitimate medical absences.”
Nellie pursed her lips and nodded, looking back down at the pamphlet.
“Are you looking for full-time or part-time?” I asked.
“I’m looking for a full-time position,” Nellie answered, glancing back up at me.
“Good, we are looking for full-time help,” I sat back in my chair and lifted my coffee, taking a sip of it. “When can you start?”
“As soon as possible,” she replied.
“How about today?” my lips kicked up in a half smile.
Nellie frowned again, that little crease reappearing, making me want to lean forward and massage it away. I didn’t. “Don’t you need to contact my references?”
“We’re desperately in need of a new office administrator, the faster we can get you to start, the better. I’m a pretty good judge of character, and I know Nix is, too. I’m confident your references will check out.”
“Well, how do you know I want the job?” Nellie challenged, tilting her head.
“You’re here, aren’t you? Unless you just wanted an excuse to see me again…”
“Hardly,” Nellie scoffed. “I’m not sure this is a good idea,” she gestured between us.
“Ah, I see. Well, if you’d have too much trouble keeping your hands off me, I understand.”
“I didn’t say that,” Nellie’s frown deepened. “I don’t know if I can work in an environment with you with our past. It’s awkward, isn’t it?”
“Aside from teaching you the ropes, you won’t see much of me. My usual job description involves me being outside, doing maintenance. Or locked in my private office, doing payroll.” I leaned back, considering her. “Besides, I don’t think our dynamic feels awkward at all. Do you feel awkward, or uncomfortable?”
“No, but…”
“Then it’s settled. We’ll keep things professional between us. I know you need the job, and you know I need the help. It’s a win/win.”
Nellie’s gaze held mine. “Alright, Noah Wood. If you’re offering, I’ll accept the job.”
